The Alliance for Good Government has rescinded its endorsement of Milos Valenta in the Gretna City Council 3rd District race. The alliance, which announced its support after a March 7 forum, made the decision at a meeting Wednesday, the group said in a news release.

Milos Valenta

The alliance did not specify details about its decision. Alliance representative Tim Fandal said he could not divulge the group's reasons for withdrawing its support. Fandal said he believes the alliance has rescinded an endorsement in the past but "it was before my time.''

Valenta, 47, said he discussed questions about his background, including a restraining order and litigation involving his businesses.

An ex-girlfriend sought a restraining order against him late last year and he was sued by a Gretna woman for taking $38,752 to do repair work on a home after Hurricane Katrina and failing to complete the job. That lawsuit charged that he was not a licensed contractor.

Valenta denied the charges, saying the plaintiff owed him additional money for work and that he placed a lien on the woman's property.

He also pleaded guilty to criminal trespassing in 2004 and received probation.

Valenta said he appreciated the alliance giving him the opportunity to "clear up'' the issues.

"I will continue in the race,'' he said, adding he has been talking with residents for years after issues facing the city. "I feel I have an obligation to myself and the people to make the neighborhood a better place.''

Three other candidates are vying for the 3rd District seat, including Rodney Hinrichs, Elaine Molaison Johnson and Mark Miller.